Allergic Reactions to Air Fresheners

Vinegar deodorizes more safely and permanently than air fresheners.

Air fresheners can temporarily make a home smell better, but the chemicals in these products can cause allergic reactions and other health problems.

Air Fresheners

The Air Fresheners and More website lists a variety of air fresheners designed to temporarily deodorize rooms. These products include sprays, foams, and solids.

Chemicals

Air fresheners may contain chlorine bleach, ammonia, or phosphates, according to the Mother Nature Network. Some air fresheners even include a nerve agent that deliberately impairs the sense of smell. These chemicals may coat floor or counter surfaces long after application.

Allergic Reactions

Home-Air-Guide.com reports that the chemicals in many air fresheners can cause eye irritation, headaches, and other common allergy symptoms. Pregnant women and new mothers who use air fresheners also see more health problems in their children.

Pre-existing Conditions

According to The New Nation, people with lung disease or asthma have a heightened sensitivity to chemicals and thus run a heightened risk of allergic reactions to air fresheners.

Recommendations

Home-Air-Guide.com recommends neutralizing odors at the source, using natural products such as baking soda or vinegar, rather than simply masking them with air fresheners that might cause allergic reactions.

References

• Air Fresheners and More
• Mother Nature Network: Natural Air Fresheners
• Home-Air-Guide.com: Air freshener chemicals and their health effects